By Clay Larroy
A vacation can soothe the soul and leave
you renewed, refreshed, and invigorated. Whether you are just now starting to
plan your next vacation, or are merely looking for travel
ideas and suggestions, read all the articles about travel. So take away some of
the stress of making travel plans, and get started thinking about the fun and
relaxing times you will soon be having on your next trip! When you are ready to
plan an exciting vacation contact me!
Overview
such pieces as the famous fountain, Fuente de Pescado, to the legendary structural wonders of the Mayan temple complex Tikal, each step along Guatemala's quaint cobbled streets and jungle trails leads further into the distant past.
As with many of its Central American neighbors, Guatemala has held onto
local customs and cultures while developing its urban hubs to meet modern
tourist standards. Party in Guatemala City's business district during
warm evenings, then travel to the markets in Chichicastenango on a
Sunday, a meeting place for traditional artisans and hub for local produce that
is bound to entice all travelers with the sensory delicacies of Guatemala's verdant
forests, farms and plantations.
Adventurous travelers can hike up Volcan San Pedro, just behind the famous
picturesque resort village of San Pedro La Laguna but should note that a local
guide is considered essential to conquering the dormant volcano's peak. While
the adrenaline junkies are relishing Guatemala's many peaks, other travelers
can enjoy a spate of urban sightseeing. The country is also home to a wealth of
ancient artefacts and numerous historical sites so history buffs will be in
their element. The country has a strong tourism industry and travelers looking
for an in-depth and immersive experience into authentic Central American
culture should lace up their boots and pack their bags, for they need look no
further than Guatemala.
Climate in Guatemala
varies more due to altitude than season; however, it is easier to see the country in the dry season, which runs from November to April and is an ideal time to explore the mountains, rainforests and volcanoes in the country. There are some regional variations, with the highlands, including Guatemala City and Antigua, experiencing less rainfall than the coast, and slightly colder temperatures at night.
Health Notes when travelling to Guatemala
Guatemala City. Dengue fever is endemic and the Zika virus can be contracted, so strict insect-bite protection measures must be taken. A yellow fever certificate is required from travelers entering the country from infected
areas. Hepatitis A and B, and typhoid vaccinations are recommended, as well as an MMR (Measles, mumps and rubella) update. Visitors should be careful what they eat and stick to bottled water, or boil all water before drinking if bottled water is unavailable. Guatemalan hospitals are unlikely to give medical treatment unless the patient has medical insurance or can pay up front. Good travel insurance is therefore essential. State-funded hospitals are best avoided and travelers should only use private clinics where possible. All medication should be accompanied with a signed and dated letter from a doctor explaining what the medication is and why it is needed.
Safety Notes when travelling to Guatemala
The rate of violent crime in Guatemala is exceptionally high. There has
also been a relatively high rate of violent attacks on tourists, especially in
remote places and in the capital, Guatemala City, specifically after dark.
Visitors
need to be particularly vigilant in the central Zone 1 of Guatemala City
where most of the cheap hotels and bus terminals are, and in all parts of the
city at night. Tourists arriving at Guatemala City airport and travelling to
hotels in the business districts have been targeted, so visitors should be
extremely alert when leaving the airport. Protest may arise without warning and
should be avoided if possible. Pick-pocketing and petty theft are common in
tourist areas and market places.
REFERENCE
SITES:
http://www.travelresearchonline.com/